The vast Masai Mara National Reserve spans approximately 1,510 square kilometres. Named for the Maasai tribe, the south-western Kenya location has the world-famous Serengeti Park forming the southern border. The terrain consists of clumps of trees, shrubbery and open savannahs. The popular location provides the chance to experience authentic wildlife safaris on land, water or by air.
See all our Lodges in the Masai Mara
Every July to October, many of the animal species that include gazelle, wildebeest and zebra, migrate en masse. Visitors taking safaris during this time might witness a single line of animals in the distance, crossing the horizon, or see the animals stopping for a refreshing drink. Watch the migrants closely, as opportunistic predators commonly make an appearance in search of a meal.
The location serves as home to the famous "Big Five" species that consist of the African buffalo, the African elephant and the black rhinoceros, along with the leopards and lions. Almost poached to the point of extinction in the 1980s, the rhinos remain the park’s largest conservatory effort. The population continues growing slowly. Other animals making the Mara home include cheetahs, hyenas and jackals.
If indulging in a safari on the Mara or Talek rivers, guests have the chance to view hippopotami or Nile crocodiles in large numbers throughout the day. Bird watching enthusiasts love the park, which has over 450 bird species, of which around 60 represent raptors.
While staying in the park, guests have numerous opportunities for meeting the Maasai people and experiencing their culture. For centuries, the people supported themselves through farming and cattle ranching, taking on the lifestyle of a nomad. Throughout their history, the people endured violent attacks by other people/tribes. Over time, the Maasai gained recognition as fierce warriors.
The Maasai commonly welcome guests into their homes and eagerly share their daily routines. Embark on a walking safari with a capable Maasai guide and learn the skills required for successfully tracking various animals. Learn about the culture while hearing explanations referring to the importance of local plants and habitats.
Visit a local school and learn how pioneer instructors strive to bring modern education to the local youth.
Exploring The Masai Mara by Uyaphi.com
Finch Hattons
Finch Hattons camp is one man's dream to create the ideal African getaway, offering guests a unique opportunity to relive the golden era of the safari in absolute elegance.
Finch Hattons surrounded by the spectacle of the great African wilderness of the Tsavo West National Park, game drives are exceptional.
Loisaba Tented Camp
Twelve luxurious rooms at Loisaba Tented Camp overlook 60,000 acres of wilderness in a private conservancy.
This stunning lodge clinging to the edge of a five hundred foot escarpment in Laikipia has unsurpassed views which defy description.
Serian Nkorombo Camp
Serian Nkorombo Camp offers guests outstanding wildlife year-round, a classic tented camp with only five tented suites.
Nkorombo is located in the Maasai Mara National Reserve on the banks of the Mara River not too far away from one of the main migration river crossings.
Mara Plains Camp
Masai Mara Plains Camp, one of only three Relais & Chateaux establishments in Kenya, offers guests a private and intimate safari experience within the private Olare Motorogi Conservancy.
The ultimate in luxury while paying homage to that classic tented safari that Kenya is so famous for.
Keekorok Lodge
Keekorok Lodge is located in the very heart of Kenya's fabled Masai Mara National Reserve, all kinds of animals and birds abound: 95 species of mammals and reptiles, and an astonishing 485 species of birds have been recorded.
Taita Hills Game Lodge
Taita Hills Game Lodge offers a truly exclusive bush experience, being situated in the heart of the Taita Hills Sanctuary, a private conservancy of 28,000 acres at the foot of the Taita Hills and adjacent to Tsavo West National Park.
A more budget-friendly option in the Tsavo West one cannot find.
Elephant Pepper Camp
Elephant Pepper Bush Camp, this 8-tented bush camp, is tucked away in a prime wildlife area, surrounded by the Masai Mara and her ubiquitous wildlife; it's a seasonal camp, which is taken down for a month or so in the rainy seasons.
Game drives are the highlight of one's stay here at Elephant Pepper, with fantastic wildlife and excellent guides.
Tortilis Camp
Elewana Tortilis Camp is a magical escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The safari camp is located just outside the Amboseli National Park in an unspoilt woodland.
Elewana Tortilis Camp offers up views out across the plains with Mt Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.